Isle of Wight travel guide - Wikitravel The Needles at Alum Bay Thatched cottages near the old church at Godshill The Isle of Wight has long been an excellent place for an upmarket but traditional seaside holiday, and has a number of individual beaches and towns that were very popular with the Victorians. However, it is also becoming a must visit destination for young people seeking watersports and outdoor activities generally. Cowes is a famous yachting centre and attracts the 'London set' together with members of the worldwide sailing fraternity during Cowes Week [2] in August. The island has a similar atmosphere to Guernsey or Jersey yet is much closer and is three times the size. Despite being only 15 miles across the sea from Southampton or 6 miles from Portsmouth it is a world apart in terms of scenery, culture and pace of life. Known as England In Miniature it offers an incredible amount of variety with the landscape changing dramatically in the space of a few miles and each town and village offering something different. Beaches are fantastic and the water quality is good. Historically the local economy has moved from being dependent on smuggling and farming to tourism with the coming of the railways.

There is in addition considerable light engineering and yacht building. The local newspaper is the Isle of Wight County Press, which has an incredible 90% readership, which is published from Newport every Friday. Any event will be advertised here. There are car boot sales nearly every day in the Summer advertised here. Get in[ edit ] Access to the island is across the Solent, a stretch of sea between the UK mainland and the island, by regular ferry, hovercraft or fast-cat from the mainland. Many of the ferries carry cars, but this can be expensive, the alternative is to travel by foot passenger and use buses and trains on the island but this will limit access to more rural locations and beaches. Car ferry travel tickets are for car plus four passengers and depending on the size of your party, bringing a car may actually work out cheaper than the passenger ferry. Hovercraft and fast cat fares are comparable, but the Hovercraft does not run very late and does not connect as easily with the trains. Prices increase for the fare with the length of the stay. Crossing time to the island is as follows.

From Portsmouth : 45 minutes by ferry, 15 mins by Fast Cat, or 10 minutes by hovercraft From Southampton : 55 minutes by ferry or 30 mins by Red Jet From Lymington : 35 minutes by ferry The major ferry routes are: Wightlink Fastcat passenger ferry [3] from Portsmouth Harbour rail station on the mainland to Ryde Pier Head on the island Wightlink car ferry [4] from Portsmouth to Fishbourne Creek (near Ryde) on the island. Wightlink car and passenger ferry [5] from Lymington on the mainland to Yarmouth on the island Red Funnel jetcat passenger ferry [6] from Southampton Town Quay on the mainland to west Cowes on the island Red Funnel conventional car and passenger ferry [7] from Southampton Town Quay to east Cowes Hovertravel passenger hovercraft [8] from the Southsea district of Portsmouth to Ryde Whilst on the ferry remember to pick up a free guide of things to do and if possible another of places to eat. These are updated twice a year and give useful information and phone numbers.

Weather[ edit ] Thanks to a southerly latitude and sheltered location, many parts of the Isle of Wight enjoy a very mild and sunny climate. The south-east of the island in particular is known for its high sunshine records and warm air. In winter, frost is rather rare. As at May 2008, the warmest month of the year so far was May with an average high of 20C (68F) and the coolest was January with an average high of 10C (50F) and the warmest day of the year enjoyed a high of 27C (81F). However, June to September are the warmest months. [9] By bus[ edit ] The island has is covered by a wide but expensive bus service (by the standards of a rural area) run by Southern Vectis [10] , including spectacular open-top services in West Wight and near Ryde.

Tickets can be bought from drivers and options include singles (up to £4.50), all-day "rover" passes [11] (adult price of £10 for one day, £15 for two), evening "NightRider" passes (£4 after 7 PM), and various discounts to cater to students and the island's retired population. Transfers aren't printed as singles are available to any destination even if a transfer is required. Additonal buses are run by Wightbus - run by the IoW County Council but do not have actual timetable information on their website as such. Buses run to Ventnor, Havenstreet and Brading. Their timetables can be found at Traveline [12] (official UK timetabling service) or iw-paths.cjb.net [13] . Day & week rover tickets are valid on WightBus routes, and also include travel on the Island Line train service.

By train[ edit ] There is a single public service railway line on the island, with a limited service running from Ryde Pier Head (connections with Portsmouth ferry) to Sandown , for local bus service to Dinosaur Isle [14] , and Shanklin , for connecting buses to Ventnor. It is run by Island Line [15] , and through tickets can be booked from any manned UK station. Cycling[ edit ] Cycling on the Island is a fantastic way to get around and keep green. The Island has over 200 miles of cycle ways much of which can be enjoyed by families off road. Major Trails to note are 'The Sunshine Trail' which incorporates Sandown, Shanklin, Godshill and Wroxhall in a 12 mile circular route. 'The Troll Trail' Which leads from Cowes to Sandown or visa versa (90% off road) approx 13 miles either way and 'Round the Island Cycle Route' which circumnavigates the Island on a reported 62 mile ride (not for the amateur or faint hearted). Cycles can be brought to the Island by foot passengers on any of the car ferries. Hire cycles are also available [16] .

See[ edit ][ add listing ] Alum Bay [17] is famous for the many different colours of sand which appear naturally on the beach. A traditional souvenir of the Isle of Wight is a picture or glass paperweight filled with the different colours - there are many stalls where you can get the wherewithal to make your own if you are so inclined. The bay is close to The Needles (see below) and accessible by stairs or by a ski resort-style chairlift. Blackgang Chine [18] was formerly a dramatic gorge through which one could walk to the sea. Following a catastrophic collapse, the Chine ceased to exist some decades ago, but the bizarre entertainment park there, with its animated figures, is still worth a visit.This is the world's first and oldest theme park Shanklin Chine [19] , a smaller gorge, can still be visited. Osborne House [20] . Although officially a summer home for Queen Victoria, she used it as her main residence for some time after the death of Prince Albert, her husband. Now owned and operated by English Heritage, most of the well-preserved house and grounds are open to visitors year-round.

Visitors planning to visit both Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle should consider becoming members of English Heritage; it can work out cheaper than buying individual tickets for family groups and allows free access to all other English Heritage properities for the rest of the year. Carisbrooke Castle [21] - located in the centre of the island, the castle is well worth a visit. Charles I was held prisoner here. The castle appears in the popular children's story 'Moonfleet', and the well which appears in the story, with a treadmill driven by a donkey (not worked very hard these days) is a popular tourist feature. Isle of Wight Steam Railway [22] , tel 01983-882204 from within the UK or +44-1983-882204 from outside. A former branch line resucitated to accurately recreate the atmosphere of the island's railways in the pre-war era, when the island was the home of already superannuated locomotives and coaches from the mainland.

Accessible by car at the steam railway's Havenstreet Station, or by changing from the island's one remaining public service railway (between Ryde and Shanklin ) at Smallbrook Junction. Open weekends and summer; see website or call telephone number above for precise opening days and times. £8 (adult); £4 (child); ticket entitles holder to unlimited travel on day of issue. The Needles [23] , a very famous headland and offshore rocks at the extreme western end of the island. Here you will find early sea defences such as the Needles Old Battery [24] , now preserved by the National Trust, and Tennyson Down, the national memorial to Alfred Lord Tennyson, and the sight of spectacular sea and land views. Accessible via Southern Vectis's open-top bus route 42 [25] , which runs half-hourly from Yarmouth and connects with the ferries from Lymington on the mainland. You can drive up to the Needles Battery if you are registered disabled, but you need tpo phone ahead to let them know you are coming in order not to face traffic coming the other way.

Steephill Cove, a cove only accessible by foot at the southernmost tip of the island near Ventnor . There is an incredible seafood restaurant right on the beach - the owners catch their own lobsters and crabs daily, you would find it hard to get fresher seafood anywhere! And the view from the tables over the cove and out to sea is breathtaking. Do[ edit ][ add listing ] Visit Ventnor Botanic Garden - the South Coast of the Island has a warm micro-climate allowing palms, banana trees and cactus to flourish, even in private gardens. It is regularly used by TV and film makers when locations like the South of France are required, in productions like Lady Chatterley's Lover. Much of the road network in the South passes through the lush flora and fauna of an area called the landslip which offers spectacular sea views between Ventnor and Niton. The Isle of Wight is, according to National Geographic Magazine, the 4th best location for dinosaurs fossils in the world. Fossil walks can be booked from Dinosaur Isle Museum at Sandown or the Fossil Shop at Blackgang Chine. Walk from Freshwater Bay to the Needles Battery over Tennyson Down.

Fantastic views over the west Wight and western Solent. From May to September the weather is often bright and warm, making a visit to some of the Island's beaches a good idea. Favourites: Colwell Bay - NW coast near Yarmouth. good golden sands, shallow shelf nice for family swimming and building sand castles. Can get busy, esp for parking, but there's generally enough space on the beach itself. Compton - SW Coast, off the Military Road. Popular for surfing when the wind is right. Lake - also on the S coast near ventnor. Windsurfing and sailing hire available. Bonchurch - beautiful. Sheltered, shallow coves get nice and warm if the sun's been out for a week or so (August). Sandown - a nicer town than Shanklin, as the beach is more extensive and the sand more attractive. The Isle of Wight has over 60 miles of beach to explore throughout the year.

The coast by Osborne House and King's Quay is private and around Newtown Ranges is MoD land In 2007, Blue Flag status was given to the beaches at Ryde East, Sandown and Shanklin for achieving the highest quality in water, facilities, safety, environmental education and management. Some 13 other Isle of Wight beaches were given Seaside Awards for above average water quality. ENCAMS environmental charity recommends the best 73 beaches in England, of which 11 are in the Isle of Wight. Some of these are subjective, such as "best for a nice seaside stroll", and if anything this is an underestimate. Walking is promoted by an annual Walking Festival. There is an extensive network of footpaths and bridle ways. The Ordnance Survey 50,000 scale Landranger map is half IOW and half in Hampshire, but the 25,000 explorer map is the same price and only covers the Island. Their are a number of "long distance trails" of which the coastal path is the longest at approximately 73 miles. gives details and photos of hundreds of walks. Music[ edit ] Isle of Wight Festival/Bestival.

Two major annual music festivals. IOW Festival is at Seaclose Park and Bestival takes place at Robin Hill Adventure Park. edit Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] Matt and Cat's Isle of Wight eating Out Guide, [26] . Over 350 independent reviews of places to eat on the Island - not written by the proprietors either. edit The New Inn [27] , Shalfleet is an excellent place to go for fresh, locally caught fish. It has a relaxed, traditional pub ambience and friendly service. Local ales and a wide range of wines are available to accompany your meal. Lake Fish Bar sells probably the best fish and chips this side of the Blue Dolphin in Hastings. You will need to book for the Baywatch at St.Helen's and probably the Crab and Lobster in Bembridge [28] , . The other restaurants in St.Helens are good but pricey. The Pilot Boat is fine and you will not usually need to book. The Black Cat in Shanklin Old Village does good Thai cuisine. Vernon Cottage in Shanklin Old Village is good for lunches.

number 3, 3 Bath Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7RN, ☎ 01983291714, [29] . daily from 6pm onward. The restaurant has a limited but excellent a la carte menu, seafoods-focused, with a wide range of wine list and not too expensive. The couple running the place were friendly and pleasant. Very reasonable prices for the quality of cooking! edit Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] The Isle of Wight has many country pubs selling food and local real ale. Adgestone Vineyard produces white wine which is used in Government state banquets when English wine is required to show off to foreign diplomats etc. Historically the local breweries were Mews, Langton at Newport and Burts at Ventnor. Most of the ex-Mews pubs were taken over by Whitbread, but local breweries have re-opened as Goddards and Yates. There are a few Gales pubs such as the Castle in Ryde. Isle of Wight tap water is generally very good for making tea. Bottled mineral water is produced under the name "Wight Spring" from Whitwell, where it was formerly a holy well.

Country Pubs with Food - The Hare & Hounds near Newport is something of an institution but has become rather oversized by unsightly back extensions. The White Lion at Arreton provides a good alternative. Nearby is The Dairyman's Daughter in the Craft Centre. The Fighting Cocks on the Newport Road holds a boot sale in the car park in summer The Crown Inn in Shorwell has fishponds and doves in its garden. However, if you want a pub with a stunning sea views and freshly cooked seafood try the Crab and Lobster Inn in Bembridge Sleep[ edit ][ add listing ] There is a Travel Lodge at Newport. There are hotels at all budget levels. The Isle of Wight Tourist Board maintains a vacancy list. There are a number of farms that provide accommodation and holiday cottages. Holiday cottages are often quite difficult to book late and relatively expensive compared with the rest of England. Many pubs also provide accommodation. Saturday night in Newport Town Centre is apt to be quite rowdy and not a good place to sleep near. Budget - "Xoron" is a houseboat converted from a wartime gun-boat. It is moored at Bembridge Harbour.

Top range - Bembridge Coast Hotel, Priory Bay Hotel (St.Helens), Farringford [Totland}. Farms- Newnham Farm, near Ryde. Pubs - The Crab and Lobster Inn has 5 B&B rooms, some with wonderful sea views and has a 4 star AA rating The Meadows is a family run B&B, it is virtually a home from home and is conveniently located close to Newport Town centre. The Meadows offers plentiful extras including a complimentary mini bottle of wine on arrival. Fort Victoria Cottage [30] is a Grade II former officer's cottage next to the sea in the Fort Victoria Country Park, near Yarmouth. St Maur Hotel (Isle of Wight Hotels), Castle Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1LG, ☎ 01983 852306, [31] . St Maur Hotel can cater for a variety of visits. Available for short breaks or week-long stays, and any other occasion or event. Can organise your travel to and from the island.

edit Castlehaven Caravan Site, Castlehaven Lane, Niton, Isle of Wight, ☎ 01983 730495, [32] . Isle of Wight caravan park right on the waters edge giving incredible sea views. (50.57668,-1.289274) edit Villa Mentone Hotel, 11, Park Road, Shanklin PO37 6AY, ☎ 01983 864 101. A lovely, family-run hotel with a warm atmosphere. The building is a converted Victorian villa on a cliff overlooking the beach (2 minute walk). Budget prices with breakfast included (full English and continental). Amenities include: free wi-fi in the lounge area, tea & coffee in rooms, a small bar and dinners by request. The family who run the hotel is Sri Lankan, so ask for their authentic Sri Lankan curry- you won't regret it! Budget. edit Get out[ edit ] Portsmouth the historic home of the Royal Navy, is a good place for a day visit ( HMS Victory , HMS Warrior , Mary Rose , etc.). Gosport for the Submarine Museum.

Off-shore sightseeing cruises can be booked from Sandown Pier or East Cowes (Wight Line Cruises aka. Blue Funnel). Isle of Wight Isle of Wight Cinema, Theatre and Arts Centre Isle of Wight Information The Isle of Wight is only a short ferry trip off the South coast of England but is unique in its independence from the mainland. It is home to the towns and villages of Bembridge , Cowes , Freshwater , Newport , Ryde , Sandown , Shanklin , Ventnor , Yarmouth . If you are having problems finding the information you require please take a look at our A-Z index . Education Adult education - take a look at all the courses in the Isle of Wight area. Colleges - universities and colleges in Hampshire. Schools in the Isle of Wight. Community Organisations Community information - Hampshire's directory of services to the community. Including information on charities, clubs, societies, sports, support and advice groups. Getting to the Isle of Wight Transport to the Isle of Wight by Car, Ferry, Hovercraft and Train Heritage Hampshire Record Office - collects and preserves archives relating to the southern English county of Hampshire and its people.

Hampshire Treasures - a single record of treasures to be found throughout Hampshire so that the effects of both time and of development could be known and assessed. Museums - managing a wealth of collections representing Hampshire's archaeology, history, art and environment. Leisure and tourism in the Isle of Wight Isle of Wight – Travel guide at Wikivoyage Understand[ edit ] Historically the local economy has moved from being dependent on smuggling and farming to tourism with the coming of the railways. There is also considerable light engineering and yacht building. The local newspaper is the Isle of Wight County Press, which has an incredible 90% readership and is published from Newport every Friday. Any event will be advertised here. There are car boot sales nearly every day in summer advertised here. Climate[ edit ] Thanks to a southerly latitude and sheltered location, many parts of the Isle of Wight enjoy a very mild and sunny climate. The south-east of the island in particular is known for its high sunshine records and warm air. In winter, frost is rather rare.

As at May 2008, the warmest month of the year so far was May with an average high of 20°C (68°F) and the coolest was January with an average high of 10°C (50°F) and the warmest day of the year enjoyed a high of 27°C (81°F). However, June to September are the warmest months. Get in[ edit ] Access is across the Solent, a stretch of sea between the mainland and the island, by regular ferry, hovercraft or fast-cat. Many of the ferries carry cars, but this can be expensive; the alternative is to leave the car behind and use buses and trains on the island, but this will limit access to more rural locations and beaches. Car tickets are for car plus four passengers and depending on the size of your party bringing a car may actually work out cheaper than the passenger ferry. Hovercraft and fast cat fares are comparable, but the hovercraft does not run very late and does not connect as easily with the trains. Prices for crossing The Solent increase for the fare with the length of the stay.

The major ferry routes and trip durations from the mainland to the island are: Wightlink passenger catamaran – Portsmouth Harbour rail station to Ryde Pier Head; 15 min; adult £11.50, day return £16.50, period return £18 Wightlink car ferry – Portsmouth to Fishbourne (near Ryde); 45 min Red Funnel car and passenger ferry – Southampton Town Quay to east Cowes; 55 min Hovertravel passenger hovercraft – Southsea (Portsmouth) to Ryde; 10 min; adult £14, day return £16.50, period return (for 90 days) £25 Whilst on the ferry pick up a free guide of things to do and if possible another of places to eat. These are updated twice a year and give useful information and phone numbers. Using the service of Hovertravel will give you the unique chance to ride / fly in a Hovercraft, as the route across The Solent is the only one left in the U.K..

At Portsmouth / Southsea for an extra fee of £1.50 Hoverbus will take you between the Hovercraft terminus at Southsea and Portsmouth & Southsea station via Portsmouth Harbour station. On the Isle of Wight Hovertravel's terminal is in Ryde next to the bus station at the seafront (use overpass across the railway tracks), while the Wightlink catamaran calls at the far end of Ryde Pier , requiring a 700 yd walk ashore (unless you get picked up by private car, or ride the train). By bus[ edit ] The island has is covered by a wide but expensive bus service (by the standards of a rural area) run by Southern Vectis , including spectacular open-top services in West Wight and near Ryde. Tickets can be bought from drivers and options include singles (minimum price of £2.50), "rover" passes (adult price of £10 for one day, £15 for two), evening "NightRider" passes (£7 after 7 PM), and various discounts to cater to students and the island's retired population. Transfers aren't printed as singles are available to any destination even if a transfer is required.

Island buses also operates Breezer and Steamer buses during the summer season to take tourists to various destinations and attractions. Needles Breezer Island Coaster Shanklin Steamer Additional buses are run by Wightbus - run by the IoW County Council but do not have actual timetable information on their website as such. Buses run to Ventnor, Havenstreet and Brading. Their timetables can be found at Traveline (official UK timetabling service). Day & week rover tickets are valid on WightBus routes, and also include travel on the Island Line train service. By train[ edit ] There is a single public service railway line on the island, with a limited service running from Ryde Pier Head (connections with Portsmouth ferry) to Sandown , for local bus service to Dinosaur Isle , and Shanklin , for connecting buses to Ventnor. It is run by Island Line , and through tickets can be booked from any manned UK station. Cycling[ edit ] Cycling on the Island is a fantastic way to get around and keep green. The Island has over 200 miles of cycle ways much of which can be enjoyed by families off road.

Major Trails to note are 'The Sunshine Trail' which incorporates Sandown, Shanklin, Godshill and Wroxhall in a 12 mile circular route. 'The Troll Trail' Which leads from Cowes to Sandown or vice versa (90% off road) approx 13 miles either way and 'Round the Island Cycle Route' which circumnavigates the Island on a reported 62 mile ride (not for the amateur or faint hearted). Cycles can be brought to the Island by foot passengers on any of the car ferries. Hire cycles are available at this website . See[ edit ] Alum Bay . Famous for the many colours of sand which appear naturally on the beach. A traditional souvenir of the Isle of Wight is a picture or glass paperweight filled with the different colours - there are many stalls where you can get the wherewithal to make your own if you are so inclined. The bay is close to The Needles (see below) and accessible by stairs or by a ski resort-style chairlift. Blackgang Chine . This was formerly a dramatic gorge through which one could walk to the sea.

Following a catastrophic collapse, the Chine ceased to exist some decades ago, but the bizarre entertainment park, with its animated figures, is still worth a visit. This is the world's first and oldest theme park. Shanklin Chine, a smaller gorge, can still be visited. 50.74893 -1.27257 1 Osborne House , York Ave, East Cowes, PO32 6JX, ☎ +44 1983 200022 . Although officially a summer home for Queen Victoria, she used it as her main residence for some time after the death of Prince Albert, her husband. Now owned and operated by English Heritage, most of the well-preserved house and grounds are open to visitors year-round. Visitors planning to visit both Osborne House and Carisbrooke Castle should consider becoming members of English Heritage; it can work out cheaper than buying individual tickets for family groups and allows free access to all other English Heritage properities for the rest of the year. adults £13.40, children £8.00, concessions £12.10.

50.68685 -1.31555 2 Carisbrooke Castle , Castle Hill, Carisbrooke, PO30 1XY (a mile and a half south west of Newport), ☎ +44 1983 522107 . In the 1640s King Charles I was imprisoned in this castle whose construction began in the 12th century. adults £7.70, children £4.60, concessions £6.90. Isle of Wight Steam Railway , ☎ +44 1983 882204 . Open weekends and summer; see website or call telephone number above for precise opening days and times. A former branch line resucitated to accurately recreate the atmosphere of the island's railways in the pre-war era, when the island was the home of already superannuated locomotives and coaches from the mainland. Accessible by car at the steam railway's Havenstreet Station, or by changing from the island's one remaining public service railway (between Ryde and Shanklin ) at Smallbrook Junction.

£8 (adult); £4 (child); ticket entitles holder to unlimited travel on day of issue. The Needles at Alum Bay The Needles . A very famous headland and offshore rocks at the extreme western end of the island. Here you will find early sea defences such as the Needles Old Battery , now preserved by the National Trust, and Tennyson Down, the national memorial to Alfred Lord Tennyson, and the sight of spectacular sea and land views. Accessible via Southern Vectis's open-top bus route 42 [1] , which runs half-hourly from Yarmouth and connects with the ferries from Lymington on the mainland. You can drive up to the Needles Battery if you are registered disabled, but you need to phone ahead to let them know you are coming in order not to face traffic coming the other way. Steephill Cove. A cove only accessible by foot at the southernmost tip of the island near Ventnor . There is an incredible seafood restaurant right on the beach - the owners catch their own lobsters and crabs daily, you would find it hard to get fresher seafood anywhere! And the view from the tables over the cove and out to sea is breathtaking.

Do[ edit ] The Governor's House in Carisbrooke Castle Visit Ventnor Botanic Garden - the South Coast of the Island has a warm micro-climate allowing palms, banana trees and cactus to flourish, even in private gardens. It is regularly used by TV and film makers when locations like the South of France are required, in productions like Lady Chatterley's Lover. Much of the road network in the South passes through the lush flora and fauna of an area called the landslip which offers spectacular sea views between Ventnor and Niton. The Isle of Wight is, according to National Geographic Magazine, the 4th best location for dinosaurs fossils in the world. Fossil walks can be booked from Dinosaur Isle Museum at Sandown or the Fossil Shop at Blackgang Chine. Walk from Freshwater Bay to the Needles Battery over Tennyson Down. Fantastic views over the west Wight and western Solent. The Isle of Wight Zoo in Sandown is a privately-run zoo with a focus on tigers and lemurs, built within the ruins of a Victorian fort which once guarded Sandown's coast and beaches.

Guided "walking safari" tours for kids, temporary exhibits include a "National Poo Museum" in 2016. From May to September the weather is often bright and warm, making a visit to some of the Island's beaches a good idea. Favourites: Colwell Bay - NW coast near Yarmouth. good golden sands, shallow shelf nice for family swimming and building sand castles. Can get busy, esp for parking, but there's generally enough space on the beach itself. Compton - SW Coast, off the Military Road. Popular for surfing when the wind is right. Lake - also on the S coast near ventnor. Windsurfing and sailing hire available. Bonchurch - beautiful. Sheltered, shallow coves get nice and warm if the sun's been out for a week or so (August). Sandown - a nicer town than Shanklin, as the beach is more extensive and the sand more attractive. The Isle of Wight has over 60 miles of beach to explore throughout the year.

The coast by Osborne House and King's Quay is private and around Newtown Ranges is MoD land In 2007, Blue Flag status was given to the beac hes at Ryde East, Sandown and Shanklin for achieving the highest quality in water, facilities, safety, environmental education and management. Some 13 other Isle of Wight beaches were given Seaside Awards for above average water quality. ENCAMS environmental charity recommends the best 73 beaches in England, of which 11 are in the Isle of Wight. Some of these are subjective, such as "best for a nice seaside stroll", and if anything this is an underestimate. Walking is promoted by an annual Walking Festival. There is an extensive network of footpaths and bridle ways. The Ordnance Survey 50,000 scale Landranger map is half IOW and half in Hampshire, but the 25,000 explorer map is the same price and only covers the Island. There are a number of "long distance trails" of which the coastal path is the longest at approximately 73 miles. Drink[ edit ] The Isle of Wight has many country pubs selling food and local real ale.

Adgestone Vineyard produces white wine which is used in Government state banquets when English wine is required to show off to foreign diplomats etc. Historically the local breweries were Mews, Langton at Newport and Burts at Ventnor, now both closed. Most of the ex-Mews pubs were taken over by Whitbread, but local breweries have re-opened as Goddards and Yates. There are a few Gales pubs such as the Castle in Ryde. Isle of Wight tap water is generally very good for making tea. Bottled mineral water is produced under the name "Wight Spring" from Whitwell, where it was formerly a holy well. Country Pubs with Food - The Hare & Hounds near Newport is a Greene King chain pub that serves a standard menu all year round -reliable, cheap for families but pretty uninspiring. Also any rustic character has been diluted by unsightly back extensions. The White Lion at Arreton provides a good alternative. Nearby is The Dairyman's Daughter in the Craft Centre. The Fighting Cocks on the Newport Road holds a boot sale in the car park in summer The Crown Inn in Shorwell has fishponds and doves in its garden.

If you want a pub with sea views and freshly cooked seafood in the middle of an estate of bungalows, try the Crab and Lobster Inn in Bembridge. Sleep[ edit ] There is a Travel Lodge at Newport. There are hotels at all budget levels. The Isle of Wight Tourist Board maintains a vacancy list. There are a number of farms that provide accommodation and holiday cottages. Holiday cottages are often quite difficult to book late and relatively expensive compared with the rest of England. Many pubs also provide accommodation. Saturday night in Newport Town Centre is apt to be quite rowdy and not a good place to sleep near. Budget - "Xoron" is a houseboat converted from a wartime gun-boat. It is moored at Bembridge Harbour. Top range - Bembridge Coast Hotel, Priory Bay Hotel (St.Helens), Farringford [Totland]. Farms- Newnham Farm, near Ryde. Pubs - The Crab and Lobster Inn has 5 B&B rooms, some with wonderful sea views and has a 4 star AA rating The Meadows is a family run B&B, it is virtually a home from home and is conveniently located close to Newport Town centre.

The Meadows offers plentiful extras including a complimentary mini bottle of wine on arrival. Fort Victoria Cottage [2] is a Grade II former officer's cottage next to the sea in the Fort Victoria Country Park, near Yarmouth. St Maur Hotel (Isle of Wight Hotels), Castle Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1LG, ☎ +44 1983 852306 . St Maur Hotel can cater for a variety of visits. Available for short breaks or week-long stays, and any other occasion or event. Can organise your travel to and from the island. 50.57668 -1.289274 1 Castlehaven Caravan Site , Castlehaven Lane, Niton, Isle of Wight, ☎ +44 1983 730495 . Caravan park right on the waters edge giving incredible sea views. Go next[ edit ] Portsmouth is a good place for a day visit (Victory, Warrior, Mary Rose, Gosport Submarine Museum etc). Off-shore sightseeing cruises can be booked from Sandown Pier or East Cowes (Wight Line Cruises aka.

Blue Funnel). Southampton , Hampshire's largest city, offers plenty of museums, restaurants and shopping. This region travel guide to Isle of Wight is an outline and may need more content. It has a template , but there is not enough information present. If there are Cities and Other destinations listed, they may not all be at usable status or there may not be a valid regional structure and a "Get in" section describing all of the typical ways to get here. Please plunge forward and help it grow ! Isle Of Wight | Attractions Articles History You are at: Home »Isle of Wight Isle of Wight The Isle of Wight, once known as Vectis to the ancient Romans, is a large island located in the English Channel, just 6 kilometers south of Hampshire and is separated from the mainland by the Solent. It features several resorts which have been active ever since the Victorian era. It was originally a part of New Hampshire, until in 1890 where it separated and became an independent country. The Isle of Wight is also home to famous people, such as poets Algernon Charles Swinburne and Alfred Lord Tennyson.

It is also the birthplace of Queen Victoria herself, who led the Victorian Era of Great Britain. In order to reach the island, one must take a hovercraft from the mainland to Southsea. From there, it’s only a ferry ride away to reach the island. The island offers a variety of activities for tourists such as cycling, rowing, sailing, trampolining, marathons, speedways for motorbike enthusiasts, ice hockey, regular hockey, football, cricket and motor scooting. The island’s tourism industry is constantly at work. And for music-lovers, it is home to the Isle of Wight Festival and the Bestival. A college of music resides here, and it offers a national diploma in music. A number of famous musicians came and were born on this island. In 1970, the famous guitarist Jimi Hendrix held a concert at the festival, attracting up to 700,000 people, quickly overwhelming the people on the island, which can only hold up to 100,000. The island is also the home of the famous UK bands The Bees and Trixie’s Big Red Motorbike.

Mark King of the band Level 42 is also from this island. Another asset that owes to the island’s bustling economy is its heritage. Its natural wildlife, historical landmarks, museums, geology, zoos and theme parks greatly help in attracting tourists each year. Some of these include the Amazon World Zoo, the Blackgang Chine amusement park, the Dinosaur Isle museum, the Fort Victoria Country Park and the Yarmouth Castle. The media also helped in gathering visitors to the island. Television shows, literature and even comics gave viewers and readers a glimpse into the island’s beauty and the many activities it offers. Articles Featuring Isle of Wight From British Heritage Magazine [tabby title=’Featured Isle of Wight Article’] Hampshire and the Isle of Wight By BRITISH HERITAGE ON JULY 1, 2013 IT WOULDN’T BE QUITE FAIR to say that Hampshire is overlooked as a destination by American visitors, though for all its diversity, scenic beauty, historic treasures and proximity to London, the county seems to maintain a pretty low profile. That makes it all the more fun to explore.

Here is a delightful and colorful introduction to historic Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, with easy driving distances and a balanced mix of town and country. Day 1 On the Road to Saxon Wessex There are several routes southwest to the central coastal county of Hampshire. From the airports or central London, though, the most fun jumps off the M25 at Junction 10 for the A3 to Guildford. Our destination is Winchester, capital of Alfred the Great’s kingdom of the West Saxons. Straight through, you could drive it in an hour, but getting there is half the fun. The first turn to the right on the A3 takes you to Wisley, the flagship gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society—magnificent in any season of the year. At Guildford, you might follow the signs for a short visit to England’s first 20th-century cathedral perched on a hilltop campus above the city. From Guildford, take the A31 toward Alton over the “Hog’s Back,” a narrow ridge offering great views over the Downs. At Farnham, do take a short detour to visit 12th-century Waverley Abbey, the first Cistercian monastery in England.

Just stroll across the watermeadow and wander in the ruins. At Alton, you can take a ride on the MidHants Railway, enjoying a steam train excursion on the “Watercress Line.” The nearby village of Chawton was home to Jane Austen. Her house is a wonderful introduction to the novelist’s life and works. Jane’s mother and sister are buried in St. Nicholas churchyard. The historic cathedral city of Winchester lies just down the road. Day 2 On the Razzle in Winchester A lot of folk breeze in and out of Winchester, but this delightful ancient small city on the River Itchen richly repays a day’s exploration. The Tourist Information Centre in the Guildhall at the base of the High Street is a great place to start. Just in back of the TIC is the close of Winchester Cathedral, with the longest medieval nave in Europe and 900 years of colorful history. Look for the grave of Jane Austen, where throughout 2013 a richly illustrated exhibition unpacks her life and work in Hampshire. The pedestrianized High Street, lined with great shops, eateries and pubs, leads uphill to the surviving Great Hall of Winchester Castle.

No, that’s not really King Arthur’s Round Table hanging on the wall. Perhaps visit in the great military museums next door. Another great visit is the City Mill down on the river. Then, perhaps take a walk through the water meadows. Just follow the path along the River Itchen to St. Cross Hospital, where you can request the Wayfarer’s Dole (see p. 54). You might do afternoon tea and little shopping on the High Street, or finish the afternoon with a return to the cathedral at 5:30 for choral evensong. An unforgettable experience. Check out the ruins of Wolvesey Castle near the heart of Winchester. Guildford Cathedral is characterized by its light nave. Day 3 To The New Forest Turning southwest this morning, take the A3090 about 10 miles to Romsey. Do pay a call at Romsey Abbey, its Saxon foundations dating to Alfred’s time. On the edge of town, Broadlands, home of the Mountbatten family, is a great visit in season. When the roses are in bloom, check out the famous collection of old-fashioned varieties at Mottisfont Abbey.

Or continue on southwest to the New Forest and its “capital” town, Lyndhurst. The best introduction to this ancient hunting preserve is the New Forest Visitors Centre with a car park just off the main street. The small towns of Lyndhurst or Brockenhurst are the places to stay—with wild, New Forest ponies wandering through the villages at will. If time permits, do take another day to explore the forest. This afternoon, however, you might take one of the beautiful ornamental drives, or pay a visit to Exbury Gardens, the National Motor Museum or the ship-building village of Bucklers Hard. Day 4 Yonder the Isle of Wight! It’s only eight miles south to Lymington this morning to catch the ferry across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. You’ll land in Yarmouth. Head first to The Needles and the Old Battery, where Marconi set up his first wireless telegraph station. Then carry on to Freshwater Bay and the A3055 coast road along the south edge of the island. There’s an aquarium along the way, a famed amusement park at Blackgang Chine and lovely botanic gardens at Ventnor.

The east coast from Ventnor to Shanklin and Sandown is traditional holiday seaside, with lovely beaches and all the accoutrements—including plenteous accommodation choices for every budget. Shanklin Old Village, which grew up around Shanklin Chine (maybe the closest thing Britain has to a tropical rain forest), is a particularly quaint location. You’ll find other explorations along the way. Day 5 An Island Panorama The IOW offers a wonderful day, with a real island feel to it. At roughly 20 miles by 13 miles, it’s not hard to get around. Head inland through the garlic fields to Newport, the island’s county town, for a visit to Carisbrooke Castle where the ill-fated King Charles I was held in captivity. Then, it’s north just a few miles to Cowes, the center of British yachting and scene of famous Cowes week, to wander about the colorful waterfront. The A-list visit in East Cowes is Osborne House, the private retreat of Queen Victoria and her family; it’s the most popular visit on the island and deserves to be.

On a sunny day, of course, you might reserve some time for the beach or seaside attractions at Sandown or Shanklin. As always, of course, where there’s holiday resort, there are plenty of nightlife and dining options. Day 6 Wherever the Road Winds If you’re heading off island today, take the ferry from Fishbourne to Portsmouth in 45 minutes. That’s the Spinnaker Tower looming over the harbor. As home of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth is awash in maritime history to be explored if time permits: the first iron-hulled warship, HMS Warrior, Nelson’s Victory, the Royal Navy Museum and much more. If you are back to London today, the most direct route is the A3, which leads northeast back to the M25 in an hour or so. If you’ve more time, turn east from Portsmouth and explore the Sussex coast to Chichester, Arundel and Brighton.

[tabby title=”More Isle of Wight Articles”] [srp widget_title=”” widget_css_id=’testing-grid’ post_type=’post’ post_content_type=’content’ post_content_length=’50’ post_content_length_mode=’words’ post_title_length=’12’ post_title_length_mode=’words’ post_date=’no’ post_offset=’2′ category_include=’744′ string_break=’ More…’ layout_mode=’multi_column’ srp post_limit=’50’ display_thumbnail=’no’ vf_everything=’no’][tabbyending] Copyright 2014 British Heritage.

Question: What is the closest mainland county to the Isle of Wight?
Answer: Hampshire